Sun Sep 15 14:22:26 UTC 2024: ## Blazar Lens Unveils World’s First Autofocus Anamorphic Lenses at IBC 2024

Blazar Lens, a company known for its innovative lens designs, has unveiled a revolutionary new product at IBC 2024 in Amsterdam – the world’s first autofocus anamorphic lenses. The 1.33x APEX series, currently in prototype phase, is set to revolutionize the filmmaking landscape.

The initial two focal lengths on display are the 35mm T1.6 and 50mm T1.8, both covering full-frame sensors. Blazar plans to release the lenses in various mirrorless mounts, including Sony E, Nikon Z, and Fuji X, with Canon RF mount under consideration. The lenses are designed to be lightweight and compact, making them suitable for a variety of shooting situations.

The decision to go with a 1.33x squeeze was driven by two key factors. Firstly, wider anamorphic squeeze ratios pose significant challenges for autofocus systems. Blazar found that 1.33x worked well with AF, while wider ratios caused issues. Secondly, the 1.33x ratio is ideal for 16:9 sensor cameras, which often lack open gate or anamorphic recording modes.

While 1.33x is less popular than other anamorphic squeeze ratios, Blazar claims that the APEX lenses deliver a look resembling 1.5x squeeze. This, combined with the inherent versatility of 1.33x, makes it a compelling choice for a more affordable anamorphic lens.

The APEX series aims to fill a gap in the market, as there are limited 1.33x anamorphic lenses available. Existing options like the Vikltrox EPIC, SIRUI 1.33x, SLR Magic 1.33x Anamorphot-CINE, and Hawk 1.3x are either expensive or don’t cover full frame completely.

Matthew Allard, Editor of Newsshooter.com, had the opportunity to test the prototype lenses on a Sony FX3 and confirmed that the autofocus performed well. The APEX 1.33x Anamorphic AF lenses are expected to be released in late December this year, but pricing details have not been disclosed yet.

This innovative technology is poised to significantly impact the filmmaking industry by providing filmmakers with an affordable and accessible way to achieve the unique look of anamorphic lenses while retaining the ease of use of autofocus.

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